Announcing: InnoVentures Finalists

On March 30th at Optimism Brewery, eight talented entrepreneurs will compete at InnoVentures: A Pitch Contest to Advance Small Business. These remaining individuals will take to the stage with the support of nearly 30 fellow entrepreneurs, demonstrating drive and passion in their quest to expand their businesses (and win some pretty cool prizes along the way).

Without further delay, let’s take a look at our InnoVentures finalists!

Lauren Holloway

Business Name: Lauren Holloway
Innovation: An avant-garde backpack made with a vegan pineapple fiber-based leather substitute“My coach Betsy helped me fill in the missing pieces to my pitch and offered me very useful feedback, and Ventures encouraged me to stick with the competition when I didn’t think I’d be able to continue. I’m learning to present my products and educate the customer, but also improving my confidence and the ask.”

Amber Campbell

Business Name: GO: South Seattle
Innovation: A network of hyperlocal hubs connecting neighbors with the people and places that make each community unique

Ximena Juarez

Business Name: Dalior Advanced Clinical Aesthetics
Innovation: Manicure and pedicure services offering digital nail printing that transform traditional methods“The support I’ve received from my husband, Jen and my coach, Ryan, has made my pitch more innovative and precise. I’m learning that there are so many entrepreneurs out there like me hoping to grow their businesses—I love how much passion they have.”

Paola Jaime

Business Name: Bilingual Seattle
Innovation: Bilingual Seattle is the only language program for learning Spanish and English that includes more time practicing conversation with native speakers than learning theory. The side effects: lots of fun, fast fluency, and helping those with limited resources get access to free English high-quality courses. ¿Te animas?

Tamera Mickelson

Business Name: T.M. Originals
Innovation: Distinctive wearable art that stands out in a crowd“I’m hoping to gain confidence and experience talking about my business with investors. The most important thing I’ve learned is how to hit all the points I want to say in a short period without sounding like an auctioneer.”

Fitsum Misgano

Bianca Juarez

Business Name: Bianca’s Cleaning Services
Innovation: A variety of cleaning services so that you come home to a clean, organized, and peaceful atmosphere“I gained or regained the excitement and joy that I felt the day I got my business license a few years ago. Through InnoVentures I learned that I have evolved from those early days until now. I am re-evaluating my strategies and accomplishments.”